LEGENDARY STORY ABOUT SIVA AND PARVATI

They had two sons, Kartikeya and Ganesh. They were very sweet and young. They used to play all kinds of games around their mother. Mother Parvati had immense enjoyment watching their playfulness.

One day, Kartikeya and Ganesh were playing. The atmosphere was full of love and happiness. Mother Parvati showed a laddu (an item of sweets) to her sons. Kartikeya and Ganesh, both asked for it. Both wanted the whole laddu. Parvati did not know what to do. She was in a difficult situation. Ultimately, she thought of a plan. She said to her sons, "I will give the laddu to whoever proves to be more religious."

Kartikeya took out his peacock chariot and started on a pilgrimage to various religious places. He thought that if he completed the pilgrimage, Parvati will surely think that he was more religious than his brother.

Ganesh, on the other hand, thought that one who is nice to one's parents is a truly religious person. Keeping one's parents happy is a genuine worship and pilgrimage. So Ganesh circled Siva and Parvati, expressed his love, respect and devotion for them, and sat at their feet.

Eventually, Kartikeya returned from his pilgrimage and asked for the laddu.

Ganesh also asked for the prize.

Siva and Parvati asked Kartikeya and Ganesh to listen carefully. They explained that talking nicely with one's parents, explaining one's intentions, seeking their advice, fulfilling their dreams and thus keeping them happy is more important than worship, pilgrimage and charity. Kartikeya and Ganesh understood.